Val Stone Photography - Through My Eyes

Apples... It must be fall!

 

So, I had to share my amazing Apple Crisp recipe.  If you like apple pie, you've got to try it. 

Val's Apple Crisp
5-6 granny smith apples (cut into small slices)
1/4 cup orange juice
2 to 3 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 1/2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1 1/2 sticks butter, softened

Mix apples, orange juice and 1 tsp cinnamon together in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, remainder of cinnamon and nutmeg. Cut in 1 stick of butter.  Mix 1/3 flour mixture into apples.  Spoon 1/3 flour mixture at bottom of a casserole dish. Pour apple mixture into 8x8 or larger casserole dish (size depends upon size of apples).  Evenly top the apples with the remaining flour mixture.  Slice 1/2 stick of butter and spread butter pats on top.  Bake for 45 minutes on 375 degrees, uncovered.  Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream. 

Halloween and Glimpse of Santa Photos
Remember to come by and get some fun photos of your kiddos in their Halloween costumes on October 27th.  And don't forget our unique Glimpse of Santa photos on November 4th (perfect for holiday cards).  No Session Fees and discounted prints.  Give us a call to set up a time.  267-4744  Read here for more information.  Hope to see you all there.

Pre-Order your Christmas Tree today!
As many of you know, Dave and I also own a Christmas Tree Lot.  The holiday season is right around the corner.  Pre-order your  Neighbor Boy Christmas Tree today and save!  Wonderful Christmas Tree lot experience, for less.  For more information, click here to visit our website!  The deadline for pre-ordering is October 31st!

Jacqueline and Joe tie the knot!

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Jacqueline and Joe's wedding at Haywood Hall in Raleigh.  After months of planning every detail and days of watching the weather forecast, it turned out to be a beautiful night!  Jacqueline looked stunning in her gown and the look on Joe's face when he first saw her was priceless!  I thought I'd share a few of my favorites!

 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Halloween and Glimpse of Santa Fun Photo Days

FUN PHOTO DAYS - NO SESSION FEES!

Fall is finally here and the holidays are just around the corner!  We have two great Fun Photo Days planned at the studio to celebrate!! Our Fun Photo Days are a great way to purchase holiday prints with no session fees and reduced print prices.  Prints up to size 8x10 are 50% off and prints 11x14 or larger are 30% off.  Holiday photo cards are 30% off.
The Fine Print:  We'll show you 2-3 images on the camera after your session.  Prints must be ordered on-the-spot.  Available to a limited number of clients per half hour, so please call as soon as possible to let us know when you're coming between 9:30 am and 6 pm.  There are no minimum orders or obligations to purchase. 

HALLOWEEN FUN PHOTO DAY
Tuesday, October 27th    9:30 am - 6 pm

Bring your little ghost or goblin (or cookie monster) into the studio for  Halloween costume photos and treats on Tuesday, October 27th.  No session fees.  Just come in to have your little ones photographed in costume.  You'll have the opportunity to order prints on-the-spot for up to 50% off.  Available to a limited number of clients per half hour, so please call before the 27th to let us know when you're coming between 9:30 am and 6 pm.  Also, please arrive to the studio in costume, or as close as possible.  Treats for the grown-ups, too...enter our drawing for a complimentary mini-session in 2010!  There are no minimum orders or obligations to purchase. 

GLIMPSE OF SANTA FUN PHOTO DAY
November 4th 9:30 am - 6 pm

These are not your typical Santa photos!!!  Get the perfect Santa photo for your cards, gifts or mantle at our "Glimpse of Santa" Fun Photo Day on November 4th.  No Session Fees.  Just come in to have your little ones photographed with Santa's helper.  You'll have the opportunity to order prints on-the-spot at up to 50% off.  Available to a limited number of clients per half hour, so please call before November 4th to let us know when you're coming between 9:30 am and 6 pm.  Also, please arrive to the studio dressed and ready for photos.  We recommend children be dressed in red, white, black or denim. Feel free to bring holiday props, such as lollipops, candy canes or Santa hats. There are no minimum orders or obligations to purchase. 

 

Holiday Sessions and Ordering Deadlines

Availability and Holiday Deadlines
Can you believe that the holidays are just around the corner??  The fall schedule is filling up quickly.  If you're interested in a fall or holiday session for your family, please call as soon as possible to schedule.  There are a limited number of October sessions still available. 

The last day for holiday sessions is Wednesday, November 11th.  The last day to place your holiday order is Friday, November 20th.

Please check the blog later this week for several great specials and Mini-Session days! 

Holiday Cards on Sale
Save 30% off your 4x6 or 5x7 holiday cards from any 2009 session when you purchase and pay for your card order by October 15th. Card stock and folded cards not included.

Here's a few recent favorites:

 

 

 

 

 

 

August and September Special Offers

August/September Special
Book your full studio, mini studio or location session between August 18th and September 10th, and your session fee will be applied as a print credit on your $500 minimum order.  That's right, we will apply your session fee as a credit on your print order...up to $140.  Session fees must be paid in order to book your session.  To receive the session fee back as a credit, your order must total $500 or more, before tax.  You must mention this discount when you book your session to receive the credit.

Holiday Cards on Sale
Save 30% off your 4x6 or 5x7 holiday cards from any 2009 session when you purchase and pay for your card order by October 15th. Card stock and folded cards not included.

OH BABY!  Twice the fun...

 

 

Support Local Businesses and Strengthen our Local Economy

I recently had the opportunity to photograph many of the cool new baby products for Premier Baby magazine.  I also talked with several of the local business owners as they brought in their items to the studio.  

 

 

And as we talked, there was one thing on everyone's mind...the economy.  It's hard not to think about it when at least once or twice a day we hear about the economy on the news.  Is it up today, or down?  Are there signs of growth or higher percentages of unemployment.  Each day holds something new and each expert has a different opinion.  But, there is one thing that all of us know - in order to strengthen our economy, we need to spend money and spend it responsibly. 

While Raleigh/Cary/Apex/Durham/Chapel Hill hasn't been hit as hard as some other areas, there is a trickle down effect.  It is important for us, as a community, to support our local businesses.  Many big companies have declared bankruptcy or reorganized in order to survive.  You can only imagine the effect the economy has had on our local businesses.  In fact, one small store that advertised in Premier Baby magazine had to close its doors before the magazine ever hit the stands. 

As individuals, we do have an obligation to help by being responsible consumers.  We have all heard that we should avoid overspending on credit cards and that we need to save more.  We should also budget and plan for the items and services that are important to us.  We can't just look for the best deal at the big inexpensive chain store down the road, but also remember to support our local business owners whenever we can.  When we purchase products or services through local businesses or locally owned franchises, we help their owners continue to stay afloat.  We help them make a profit, continue to grow, keep their current employees on the payroll, and keep their doors open to us.  Supporting the local economy supports local job growth and local spending.  It insures that landlords receive their lease checks, shopping centers keep their tenants, that mortgage and rent payments get paid, and that more local spending takes place as the cycle continues. 

The market is going to take time to correct itself.  But we can all help.  Careful and considerate spending habits can help you achieve your personal financial goals and supporting the local community can help insure that the triangle area continues to be a growing and thriving area for all of us and our families.

Keep an eye on our blog and newsletters for special discounts and savings each month.  And visit our Neighbor Boy blog to learn more about our other business- landscaping/lawn maintenance and Christmas Trees. See more of my work and other local advertisers in the newest edition of Premier Baby and Child magazine. 

 

 

 

 

All images photographed by Val Stone and seen in the current issue of Premier Baby and Child Magazine.

Christmas In July Sale!

Imagine a perfect world... a world where November gives way to December, and you have already addressed your holiday cards and finished your gift shopping!  If you're like me, and always waiting until the last minute (and vow to do better next year) ...This is Your year!  

I know it's early to be thinking about the holidays.  But, it's the perfect time to take advantage of our Christmas in July Sale!  Outdoor mini sessions with discounted prints and holiday cards!  Regular sessions with discounted and complimentary holiday cards.  Book now and avoid the last minute holiday rush!  Details below...

Outdoor Mini Sessions
Discounted Session Fees
Prints and Holiday Cards on Sale
You asked for them, you got them! Mini sessions on location!

This is the PERFECT way to get great photos for your holiday gifts and cards, without the time, stress or expense of a full location session!  We'd hoped to have our outdoor studio ready to go for this summer, but we're not quite there.  So, we will be having this month's mini session special at the beautiful JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh.  We've had a LOT of interest in this special, so if you'd like to reserve a time for your children or family, please call as soon as possible! 

Dates, Prices, and additional Information 
Thursday, July 9th from 9 am - 1 pm
Tuesday, July 21st from 9 am - 1 pm
Thursday, July 30th from 3 pm - 6 pm

Session Fees       
$30 (1-2 siblings); $60 (3-4 siblings or family up to 5 people)

Minimum Order   
$250

Print Discount:
40% off all gift prints up to 8x10
30% off 4x6 or 5x7 photo holiday cards
15% off all mounted portraits & gallery wraps 8x10 or larger

Proofs
One set of b/w or color 4x6 proofs is complimentary with a $600 print order

Information          
Sessions will last 20 minutes and you will be shown at least 5-10 images to choose from in a personal on-line gallery.  Session fee and minimum order payments are required at the time of booking the session.  In the event of bad weather, we will reschedule for a later date. On-line proof galleries will be provided within approximately a week and you will have 7 days to place your order.  Discount pricing available only with this special and cannot be combined with any other offer.  Discount not valid on folding or cardstock cards.

What to wear?
For timeless photo gifts, keep clothing choices simple and classic.  For more than one person, coordinate your outfits in terms of color and style! 

 

Early Bird Holiday Card Special
Book your holiday session by July 31st and save 20% off your session fee and 30% off 4x6 or 5x7 photo holiday cards!  Plus receive 25 complimentary holiday cards with your $500 print order.  Perfect for those who plan ahead!

Terms
To take advantage of this special, your Mini studio, full studio or location session must be booked by July 31, 2009 and must take place by September 30, 2009.  You MUST mention this special when you book your session in order to receive your discount and complimentary holiday cards! Cannot be combined with any other special or discount.  Discount not valid on cardstock or folding cards.

 

Already had your session for this year?  Don't miss out on our holiday card special! 

Order 4x6 or 5x7 photo holiday cards by July 31st from any January 1 - June 30, 2009 session and receive 30% off!  Already booked, but haven't had your session yet?  Call by July 31st, and add this special to your upcoming session! 

Terms
To take advantage of this discount, you must mention this special when you call.  Cannot be combined with any other special or discount.  Discount not valid on folding or cardstock cards.

 

 

 

"What's your favorite age to photograph?"

I must get asked that question at almost every session.  But the truth is, I really don't have a favorite age to photograph.  It's kind of similar to how at each age with my son, I think, "wow, this is the best stage so far."  Yet for some reason, newborns always make me smile.  Whether awake or asleep, they're simply beautiful!

Here's a peek at a few images from a recent session...

 

 

 

 

 

 

June?

Um, when exactly did it become June??  I'm not sure how I've not posted since March!  The days and weeks flew by once the weather warmed up.  It's that time of year for outdoor sessions, especially now that school is out for many.  Be sure to book early, if you're planning to do a location session this summer or fall.  And look for this year's Christmas in July sale in just a couple short weeks!  We'll have print, session and holiday card specials from any 2009 session!

I wanted to thank all of you who participated in our UNC Lineberger Cancer Center Fund Raiser.  We didn't quite reach our goal, but we are honored to be able to donate to such an amazing facility.

There were so many great sessions the past couple months that I didn't know where to begin posting photos.  Here's a few that caught my eye.  And I promise to do a better job at keeping up!

I have been photographing both these boys since they were three months old!  What wonderful brothers!

 

Many of you still ask about my sister and her triplets.  Well, here are my beautiful nephews and niece.  They are amazing at 2.5 years old.  (Of course, I might be a little biased.  :)

 

 

 

And in what some might consider a miracle, we actually got all three two year olds to sit in a photo with my nine year old son for a Mother's and Father's Day for our parents!

Shy, but beautiful!

A few more from Duke Gardens! 

 

 

 

 

This lucky mom is expecting twins in just a couple short months! 

 

Newborns always amaze me!

 

 

Such a sweet boy!

Mother's Day Specials and Breast Cancer Fundraiser

A portion of each Mother's Day special below will be donated to the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in honor of all the beautiful and amazing Moms whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.  Our goal is to donate at least $1000.  Please help us exceed our goal and read Lea's story below to find out why we chose UNC Lineberger.

 

Mother's Day Package - $400

A mini session in our studio for up to four related subjects, on your choice of either a black or white backdrop, a 10-20 image on-line proof gallery from which to make your selections, a $350 print credit, PLUS a set of 4x6 proofs in your choice of either black/white or color.  I will donate my regular $60 mini-session fee to the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center for each package purchased.  Packages must be purchased and sessions must be completed by May 31st, 2009.  Please book early as a limited number of Packages are available. 

 

Spring Photo Days - with NO session fees

Bring your little bugs and flowers into the studio for Spring photos.  April 27th and 28th from 9 am until 3 pm.  No session fees, spring props (optional) and special half price prints make this a deal you won't want to miss.  You'll select your prints from approximately three proofs shown directly off the camera and make your print purchase on site.  4x6 through 16x20 prints will be available at 50% off.  Cash, check or Visa/MC accepted.   Available to a limited number of clients per half hour, so please call to reserve your time slot today. 10% of profits will be donated to the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.  Additional donations are welcome!

 

Gift Certificates

Gift Certificates make a GREAT Mother's Day gift for all the moms in your life.  10% of all gift certificates purchased between April 1st and May 15th, 2009 will donated to Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

 

Why UNC Comprehensive Cancer Center?

As women, breast cancer is one of our greatest health fears.  We joke about the evil male who must have invented mammogram machines and look to our friends for reassurance when extra films are needed.  Most of us know at least one person who has been diagnosed, and some of us receive that diagnosis ourselves.  What has always amazed me the most is the incredible strength in which women tackle what surely must be one of the greatest challenges of their lives.  My stepmother and step-grandmother both confronted breast cancer and won.  One friend has beaten breast cancer twice, and another just finished up her treatment. 

 

Last year I photographed a beautiful family and their four month old son.  During the session I was so moved by their story...how they met and their journey to start a family.  But when the husband picked up the order a few weeks later, I found out his wife, Lea, was diagnosed with breast cancer right after our appointment.  While she is still in treatment, she told me just the other day that she hoped "this will all be a bad dream come mid summer."  When I asked if she had a special organization she'd like to donate to, she immediately provided the information for Lineberger Cancer Center, where she is being treated.  Read Lea's story below.

 

Ladies, thank you for inspiring me.  No matter what life throws our way, REAL Women are so strong... not only for ourselves, but also for those we love.  If any of you missed this video, it is a must see.  Transcending by Kelly Corrigan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thank you for supporting us on this fundraiser.

Val and Dave

 

In Lea's own words: 

On October 15^th, 2008 I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  I was 41 years old.  My son, my only child, was five months old.  I can’t even begin to verbalize the fear and emotional pain I felt as I wondered if my time with my beautiful baby boy was limited.  How could this be?  I had only shared five months with this amazing little baby.  Augustus Oliver was born on May 17, 2008.  We adopted him on May 28^th, 2008. Gus is the most incredible thing to ever happen to us.  I wasn’t going to let a cancer diagnosis do anything to keep me from being the mother and wife I’d always wanted to be.

 

I entered into the fight of my life just minutes after my diagnosis.  My husband and I started making phone calls as we drove away from the appointment where we received the life altering news that I indeed had cancer.  In a matter of two weeks we met with several surgical oncologists, plastic surgeons and physicians.  My neighbor suggested I contact the UNC Breast Cancer Center at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. I didn’t know much about it, but after talking with another breast cancer survivor who had been treated at UNC, I was there for a day of appointments shortly after the initial phone call. 

 

Almost immediately I knew I was exactly where I needed to be.  The medical professionals at the UNC Breast Cancer Center were going to help me win.  Not only did I feel enveloped with support, compassion and understanding but I was in awe of the world class physicians who were going to take a multidisciplinary approach to my treatment.  Not one, but the entire team meets to discuss patients and their care.  Surgical oncology, plastic surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, as well as radiologists, pathologists, reconstructive surgeons, oncology nurses, geneticists, physical therapists and social workers.  Right here in our backyard we have the crème de la crème. 

 

Cancer is a battle of strength, faith, will and endurance.  I credit my husband, son, family and friends for making it possible for me to fight this battle while still being able to enjoy the precious moments of being a mother.  I equally credit the UNC Breast Cancer Center.  Without them, I don’t know if I’d be able to count my blessings and discover daily the joys of parenthood.   Cancer is mean, ugly and unforgiving. However I am very thankful for the positive it has brought to me.  I know, without a doubt, that I am loved and cared for by so many people, including the doctors, nurses and caregivers at UNC.  They treat you like family. 

 

Battle with breast cancer is like the 880 hurdles…long and lots of ‘em. It starts with the news that you need a biopsy and seems to go on and on.  I am confident that my caregivers at UNC will be there with me through this race.  It takes fortitude, determination and some really smart and caring people.  With the support of my husband, son, family, friends and UNC…I’ve got the tools I need to beat this.

 

Baby Gus:

 

 

Lea and Baby Gus: